Ottawa, June 20: Canada has enacted a new law aimed at curbing religious hatred, threats, and extremist activities. This legislation is designed to protect individuals’ religious freedoms. Several prominent Hindu organizations have expressed their satisfaction with the passage of Bill C-9, also known as the Combating Hate Act.
On Saturday, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (COHNA) stated that this law will assist Canadian citizens in addressing threats. The organization specifically highlighted the challenges faced by the Hindu community in recent years due to alleged threats from Khalistani extremists.
In a statement shared on X, COHNA remarked, “As one of the communities facing a troubling rise in religious hatred and discrimination, Hindu Canadians welcome these security measures. We hope these steps will enhance safety without compromising religious freedom.”
The organization further noted that the new law includes provisions for bubble zones to protect access to religious and community sites, along with expanded measures related to hate symbols. These provisions are expected to help Canadian citizens deal with threats, including those targeting the Hindu community from alleged Khalistani extremist activities.
Meanwhile, the Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF) has urged the Canadian government to fully implement the provisions of Bill C-9 and take action against the alleged Khalistani extremist networks as identified by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).
HCF stated on X, “Through this law, Canada has corrected a historical mistake. The term ‘swastika,’ a sacred symbol of peace for millions of Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, has been replaced with the accurate hate symbol ‘Hakenkreuz.’ This change reflects the values of accuracy, respect, and inclusivity in our multicultural society.”
The organization also mentioned that over 100 groups across Canada supported this change, which was made possible by the collective efforts of communities.
HCF emphasized that merely enacting laws is not sufficient; real security can only be ensured through the effective enforcement of robust laws.
The organization concluded, “Hindu Canadians continue to face targeted threats from active Khalistani extremist groups (CBKE) in Canada, which attempt to bring foreign conflicts into our communities. These networks are accused of harassment, vandalism, glorification of violence, and organized disinformation campaigns. Bill C-9 provides Canada with strong tools, but the use of these tools is also essential.”
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